Why it matters: The comments mark an increase in competition between Tesla and Chinese automakers over the adoption of autonomous driving. The news also comes as Li Auto started calling back some former staff late last month having previously dismissed roughly 30% of its 1,100-person Autonomous Driving Group in a setback to the company’s launch of its first battery electric model, the Mega. It could further evolve to a level 4 highly autonomous driving system over the next three years, Li added, without elaborating further. It is unknown whether Li Auto will take legal responsibility for its upcoming level 3 technology. READ MORE: Li Auto accelerates assisted driving tech competition amid launch of first battery EV